Update Galaxy R to Jelly Bean 4.2.1 with Vanilla RootBox Custom ROM

Vanilla RootBox is a popular custom ROM among Android users, as the firmware has been made available for the Galaxy S2 and Galaxy S3 handsets. Now, those of xda-developers had developed a new version of the software that can be installed on the Samsung Galaxy R devices. Therefore, if you choose to use the present step by step guide, you will be able to learn how to easily prepare your phone for the flashing procedure and then how to apply the Jelly Bean 4.2.1 based Vanilla RootBox Custom ROM update on your Galaxy R smartphone.

In case you will not like the Vanilla ROM, then you can anytime check our previous updates that can be installed on the Galaxy R, like CM10 or ParanoidAndroid, so make sure that you are choosing the platform that satisfies your needs. Anyway, related to the present firmware here is what you need to know: Vanilla RootBox is based on the Android 4.2.1 Jelly Bean system and comes with important features, looks and capabilities that cannot be found in the default version of the Android system. The software is a custom one and not an official update released by Samsung for your Galaxy R, so don’t expect to receive the classic or default Jelly Bean experience.

Actually, Vanilla RootBox is a mixed ROM that combines the CM10.1 and AOKP platforms in order to offer an improved, more stable and better Android 4.2.1 Jelly Bean experience on your Samsung Galaxy R handset. There will be many features and apps added to your phone, so after flashing the firmware you will be able to power up the performances of your device and also customize and optimize its internal system, looks and more. You can check the enhancements list by using the link from here. Remember that the Vanilla RootBox Jelly Bean 4.2.1 OS has been developed by those of xda-developers so we have them to thanks for the present tutorial.

Because we are dealing with a custom ROM and not with an official update, for being able to complete this step by step guide you will have to root your Galaxy R first. The ROM will have to access some internal files and in-built programs from your device and this access can be granted only if you previously root the system of your phone. Unfortunately by doing the same you will void the warranty of your handset. For restoring the warranty a downgrade / update to stock ROM operation will be required (or just unroot your Galaxy R and reset the flash counter).

After gaining root access you will need to install a custom recovery image on your Galaxy R, this tool being used on the update procedure, which means that you cannot apply the next steps without flashing the recovery image first. You can skip these tasks in case your Samsung Galaxy R is already rooted and installed with a custom recovery image.

Then, it is a good idea to backup the data because, as you will see during the proper steps, before applying the Vanilla RootBox Jelly Bean 4.2.1 custom ROM on your Galaxy R, you will have to wipe the system. Therefore, all of your personal info will be erased; in order to avoid the same make sure that you save the contacts, messages, call logs, market apps and also don’t forget about the internet settings and EFS folder. It is recommended to make a Nandroid backup too, so don’t hesitate and apply the same before going any further.

Now, take a look over the pre requisites from below and apply the same. Take note that you will not be able to complete this tutorial without performing the next tasks, or worst you can end up in having a bricked phone.

You need to have access / use a computer or notebook; also the Galaxy R and its USB cable must be near you.

You have to uninstall the antivirus programs, and any other security tools, that are being installed or running on both computer and smartphone.

You need to enable the USB debugging option on your phone.

It is recommended to charge the battery of your handset; if the power left is less than 60% then, your phone might get turned off in the middle of the update operation.

Complete this step by step guide only for installing the CM10 and AOKP based Vanilla RootBox Jelly Bean 4.2.1 custom ROM on the Samsung Galaxy R; this method will work only for the mentioned Android powered device.

Select the update file you have downloaded earlier and apply the same.

Don’t forget to flash the Google Apps package too.

Finally, select “+++go back+++” followed by “reboot system now” and you are done.

In case you are getting a boot loop, or if something isn’t working as expected, reboot into recovery once more and re-do the wipe.

There you have it; that was the tutorial that can be used for those who are looking forward in updating their Samsung Galaxy R to Android 4.2.1 Jelly Bean with the CM10.1 and AOKP based Vanilla RootBox Custom ROM Firmware. Test the software and use the comments area from below for sharing your impressions and thoughts with us.